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Digital nomads are remote professionals who live and work from various global locations — a phenomenon that has been accelerated by advancements in technology, flexible job roles, and changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognizing the economic and cultural benefits these remote workers bring, several European countries have introduced or expanded visa programs tailored specifically for digital nomads this year. These initiatives aim to attract skilled remote workers by providing legal pathways to stay, tax incentives, and support services that encourage integration and contribution to local communities.
Now, a wave of digital nomad visa programs are set to launch or grow across Europe, according to Travel and Tour World. Countries are competing to attract remote talent by offering benefits such as tax breaks, residency options, and grants.
Portugal’s D8 Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal’s popular D8 visa permits non-EU remote workers to stay for up to a year with the option to renew. Applicants need a minimum monthly income of €3,280 and proof of housing. After five years, residents can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Spain’s “Live in Ambroz” Program
Spain’s Extremadura region has rolled out the “Live in Ambroz” initiative, providing grants up to €16,620 to digital nomads willing to settle in the rural Ambroz Valley for a minimum of two years. This program, which targets economic revitalization of rural areas, prioritizes younger applicants under 30 and women. Those interested must first secure Spain’s digital nomad visa and residency status. The initiative limits participation to 200 individuals.
Norway’s Visa for Remote Professionals
Norway’s digital nomad visa requires applicants to earn at least €40,000 annually and maintain at least one Norwegian client. The program targets skilled remote workers willing to reside in Norway’s remote regions.
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit
Malta continues to attract remote workers with its Nomad Residence Permit, which allows stays of up to one year, renewable. Applicants must earn at least €3,500 per month and provide proof of accommodation. The country’s tax policies are favorable to remote workers, with no tax on foreign income.
Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa
Italy launched its digital nomad visa in 2024, opening doors for non-EU remote workers to live and work in the country. The visa, valid for one year with options for renewal, requires applicants to demonstrate an annual income of at least €25,000, hold health insurance, and have pre-arranged accommodation. Long-term residents may apply for permanent status after five years.
Romania’s Tax Benefits for Remote Workers
Since 2023, Romania has offered substantial tax exemptions to digital nomads, waiving income tax, health insurance, and social security contributions under certain conditions. To qualify, applicants must earn at least €3,300 monthly. The one-year renewable visa aims to make Romania an attractive destination for remote professionals.
Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa
Greece offers a Digital Nomad Visa for non-EU remote workers earning at least €3,500 a month. Valid for 12 months (extendable to 2 years), the visa allows you to live and work in Greece while employed by companies or clients outside the country.
Germany’s “Freiberufler” Freelance Visa
Germany offers the “Freiberufler” freelance visa for remote workers in liberal professions. While not a typical digital nomad visa, it allows non-EU freelancers to live and work in Germany for 3 months initially, with a possible extension up to 3 years. Applicants must have a registered German address, proof of income (at least €9,000/year), and work that benefits the German economy — typically shown through German clients.
